The Strong Ports, Strong Communities Act authorizes the Department of Homeland Security to create a grant program that funds infrastructure improvements in communities near the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada land borders. The program would help state, local, tribal governments, and nonprofit utilities pay for transportation, water, utility, and other infrastructure projects that either support border ports of entry or address negative impacts from their nearby presence, such as traffic congestion and pollution. Eligible projects must fall into one of five categories: improving trade and travel efficiency, enhancing border security, building resilience, supporting CBP employee quality of life, or addressing community impacts. Recipients generally must provide 30 percent of project funding from non-federal sources, though this requirement can be reduced or waived for rural areas or projects with significant homeland security benefits. The legislation does not specify a dollar amount but authorizes "such sums as may be necessary" pending congressional appropriations.
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